November 2017 — Beech trees and swallows

Up to now we have experienced a remarkably mild but wet autumn. Many deciduous trees are still holding on to some of their leaves despite storm-force winds, while evergreens like holly appear dust-free and polished.

Beech trees

     A favourite tree of mine grows at the far end of Strinesdale Upper reservoir – a Scots pine which has developed in its own space into a fine round-headed specimen. This native conifer looks blue-tinged in the autumn light. I noticed recently that a wild rose, presumably having grown from a bird-dropped seed, has climbed into the pine, adding a further layer of beauty and interest.

     Looking towards Counthill, one can see a row of beech trees. They may be admired in all seasons, but at the moment, they are sensational with the leaves exhibiting warm golden and russet tones. This magnificent species has been the subject of scholarly debate as to whether it is native to the UK or has been introduced from abroad. Julius Caesar invaded Britain in 55 and 54 BC and asserted that no beech trees existed here, but soil samples from some depth contain pollen and show that beech has grown in England since the dawn of time. The eigtheenth-century Hampshire curate, the Revd Gilbert White, writing in the Natural History of Selbourne, declared beech ‘the most lovely of all forest trees, whether we consider its smooth rind or bark, its glossy foliage, or graceful pendulous boughs.’

 

BarnSwallow

    The swallows, models of streamlined elegance which skimmed over Holroyd’s land in September, have been replaced by large flocks of jackdaws. These members of the crow family, recognisable by their battleship-grey necks, have a cheeky, strutting gait and make a lot of noise. Their coarse calls resemble an out-of-tune string instrument being twanged. At regular intervals the flock lifts off the ground, all calling at once until they settle down again. Although common, they are worth watching for their great agility in the air.